The pro-life campaign, 40 Days for Life, is currently holding peaceful public witnesses in the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh in order to pray for an end to abortion. You will find them at:

Edinburgh: Chalmers Clinic, 2a Chalmers Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9ES. Contact the organiser for details of the vigil each day:  https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/edinburgh

All participants are asked to sign a statement of peace in which they pledge to conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner. For more information, contact Paul Atkin of the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office at prolife@staned.org.uk.

Below is Archbishop Leo Cushley’s message of support to those taking part in 40 Days for Life 2022.

Dear Friends,

Later this month, on 22 October, the Church marks the Feast of Pope St John Paul II. Along with our present Holy Father Pope Francis, John Paul was a great advocate for the unborn and a defender of their right to life.  

He wrote: “Christ needs you to enlighten the world and to show it the "path to life" (Psalm 16:11). The challenge is to make the Church’s "yes" to Life concrete and effective. The struggle will be long, and it needs each one of you. Place your intelligence, your talents, your enthusiasm, your compassion and your fortitude at the service of life!” (Homily on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 1993).

It is out of love for mothers, unborn children, their families and the common good of wider society that many will quietly and peacefully provide daily witness as part of 40 Days for Life. I commend all who do so. I offer you my support. I assure you of my prayer. I give you my blessing.

Sincerely in Christ,

+ Leo Cushley